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CR2002-59 trail and sidewalk master plan C \ T Y OF ~ April 10, 2002 I-iOPKINS Council Report 2002-59 . Approve Community Comprehensive Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan City Project 01-11 Proposed Action Staff recommends adoption of the following motion: Move that Council adopt Resolution 2002-31 , Resolution Adopting Co mmuni tv Comprehensive Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan. Citv Project No. 01-11 , and companion Resolution 2002-32. Resolution Supporting "fluce Rivers Park District Implementation of Trails, Greenways, and Parks in the First Tier Communities. Overview The City's current trail and sidewalk plan was developed in 1992 and the Council and Park Board identified the need for updating and enhancing the plan in the 2001 budget. In Aug~ISt 2001. City Council approved a professional services agreement with SRF Consulting Group, Inc.. for the development of a comprehensive trail and sidewalk master plan and ultimately the production of a map/brochure that showcases the trail/sidewalk and parks system in Hopkins. Draft copies of both the brochure and report have been presented to the Hopkins Park Board and the City Council and were approved for presentation to the residents of Hopkins through a series of public open house meetings. In addition to the two public open houses held on April 41h and April 91h, City . stat! presented the plan at a meeting of the Intcrlachen neighborhood on March 181h. Through these meetings and numerous phone calls, e-mails, and letters, a vast amount of input was received from a wide variety ofI-lopkins residents. The input that was received was used to develop recommendations for revisions to the plan. These recommended revisions are included with the plan that is now submitted for approval. Along with the approval of the plan, Three Rivers Park District (formerly Hennepin Parks) has asked cities within the district to adopt a resolution supporting their implementation efforts for trails, grcenways, and parks in lirst tier communities such as Hopkins. The Hopkins master plan that is recommended for adoption identifies many of the same trail segments through Hopkins that are identi fied in the Tluee Rivers Park District Master Plan. Primary Issues to Consider . Recommended Plan Revisions . Publ ic Input . Project Schedule and Distribution of Brochures Supporting Information . Meeting Sign-in Sheets . Letters and E-mails from Hopkins Residents . Revised Hopkins Master Plan and Three Rivers Park District Master Plan . Resolutions ::200~-J 1 and 2002-32 . 'Jiz;.-~ ~ ;' 4.,(J~'< · Steven G. Bot. Assistant City Engineer - -- .-- ---- Council Report 2002-59 Page 2 . . Recommended Plan Revisions Outlined below arc the major revisions to the Hopkins Master Trail and Sidewalk Plan that City Stafr is recommending be made following the vast amount of input and information we have received from the residents of Hopkins through the public input phase of this project. Recommended Revision No. 1 Staff is recommending adding the word "destination" to project goal "B" in the mastcr plan report so that it reads, "Provide non-motorized links to destination schools. parks, community institutions, commercial nodes, and transit nodes within the City." Along with this revision, the future on- street bike route and sidewalk sections shown in the draft plan along Homedale Road and Interlachen Road should be removed from the final plan. Statf is recommending this revision due to the fact that the locations these trails and sidewalks would have connected are not destination locations due to their characteristics and the opposition to these proposed improvements from the vast majority ofInterlachen Neighborhood residents. . Recommended Revision No.2 Remove the future off-road ]ocal trail shown in the draft plan along the Hopkins northern section of Minnehaha Creek from the linal plan. StafY is recommending this revision due to the fact that upon detailed review of this section to address concerns brought up by residents of the Bellgrove neighborhood, it was determined that it is not feasible to build this trail in-between the creek and the railroad tracks due to the close proximity of the creek edge to the railroad in critical locations. In addition, along this section of Minnehaha Creek, Three Rivers Park District (formerly Hennepin Parks) identit'ied only a rcgional water trail and 110t a pedestrian trail in their master plan. Also, in 1978 the Hopkins City Council passed a resolution supporting the creek in this area be limited to canoeing and cross country skiing. . Public Input ^ vast majority of the input 'vve received is addressed in the two major staff recomml:nded revisions. Outlined belO\v is a summary of some areas in the plan where input was received from residents and changes to the plan are not needed (i.e,. complimentary and positive comments) or staff is . not recommending plan changes (i.e., negative comments that sections of trail or sidewalk are not needed, generally made by abutting property owners ). Council Report 2002-59 . Page 3 Future sidewalk on the east side and trail on the west side of Blake Road. south of Excelsior Boulevard Although many abutting property owners would like it removed from the plan, this fllture section of sidewalk is recommended by City Staff to remain on the plan as it was in the last plan adopted in 1992. Blake Road is a busy County Road \vhere pedestrian facilities would typically be needed to allow safe non-motorized travel up to the safe crossing intersections (i.e., the signal at Blake Road and Excelsior Boulevard). While most of the abutting property owners have indicated they are not in favor of this sidewalk, many of the residents living in the Jnterlachen neighborhood bave privately indicated that they see this sidewalk benefiting them if it were installed. The main concern of the abutting property owners is the potential impact to their front yards that a sidewalk may have. Staff has extensively looked at this area and feel that impacts to the abutting residential properties on the east side of Blake Road could be minimized if the sidevlalk were constructed in conjunction with the reconstruction of Blake Road, which is not currently scheduled but is anticipated in approximately 10 years. As a result, staif feels that continuing to show this future sidewalk section on the master plan makes sense. When Blake Road is ultimately reconstructed, the specific design . and location of this sidewalk will be closely looked at and it could be decided at that time that the sidewalk section shouldn't be constructed if it is determined that the impacts to thc abutting residents are too detrimental. A future off-street trail is shown on the west side of Blake Road in the same area as it vvas in the 1992 plan, and the abutting residents have mentioned that this trail on the one side should be adequate to handle the non-motorized traffic. While staff agrees that one trail could handle tbe amount of non-motorized traffic, the demand for its use comes ham both sides of Blake Road and the combination of proposed facilities in the plan eliminates the need for mid-block crossings of a busy County Road. All residents were enthusiastic about the future planning for this trail in addition to the fi.lture planning for upgrading the trail north of Excelsior Boulevard 011 the west side of Blake Road up to the Southwest LR T Regional Trail. ruture trail along Excelsior Boulevard east of Blake Road While most residents were supportive of improving the existing trail along the north side of Excelsior Boulevard, some concern was raised as the practicality of installing a future trail along the south side without cutting into the back yards of the abutting properties in the Interlachen neighborhood. Staff is confident that impacts to these abutting property . back yards can be minimized and the yards possibly be improved (i.e., new privacy fence, etc.) when this section of Excelsior Boulevard is Council RepOli 2002-59 Page 4 . reconstructed and possibly shifted slightly to the north to help with the impacts on these southern prope11ies. These future improvements for both the roadway and the trail will complement the improvements that are currently planned for Excelsior Boulevard west of Blake Road. For the aforementioned reasons and the fact that non-abutting residents from Interlachen and the community would benefit from this future trail, staff is recommending it remain on the plan as it was in the last plan adopted in 1992. Future trail along the south side of Minnetonka Boulevard ( Co. Rd. 5) This future trail was shown in the 1992 Horkins trail plan and has been planned for and favored until recently by the Bellgrove Neighborhood residents as expressed at their recent neighborhood association meeting. Up to this point. both the City of Hopkins and the City of Minnetonka have been cooperating to assure that both City's trail plans complement each other so that both our residents are able to use each other's trail segments to connect to featured facilities in both communities. In their master trail plan and in their 2001 CIP. Minnetonka has budgeted and planned for their Minnetonka Boulevard trail segments east of Hopkins to Highway 169 and west of Hopkins to Big Willow Park and the Minnetonka Loop Trails System. Both Cities feel the benefits of this off- street trail could be accomplished along the Minnetonka Boulevard . cOlTidor for minimal costs and with minimal impacts to trees and pavement width due to the fact that much of the existing southern bike lane could be utilized to install curbing and the trail behind the curbing. Existing drainage-v.iaYs could continue to be utilized so that any storm sewer costs are also minimal. This ofT-street trail would provide a much safer and inviting non-motorized route along this busy County Road for Hopkins residents to connect to the featured facilities of Hopkins and Minnetonka than the existing on-road bike lanes do. Miscellaneous Comments City Staff also received many c:onstructive and pos!tlve miscellaneous comments. Other than the lnterlachen neighborhood, and the Bellgrove neighborhood to some extent. Hopkins residents 'v'vere generally pIcased and excited about the plan. They felt the brochure/map was a great asset for our community to have to help promote some of the many things Hopkins has to oner. Many future projects (i.e., Oak Ridge Road, 2nd Street North, etc.) were specifically mentioned as needed future projects that the residents in the area 'vvere genuinely excited about. Most people are in favor of improving connections to the Regional Trail System and a few even mentioned they would like to see all the Regional lrai Is paved rather than gravel as some . of them currently arc. Council Report 2002-59 Page 5 . Other residents brought up individual segments of sidewalk that they would like to see installed such as along First Street South, which was already proposed a few years back. These residents were encouraged to get a neighborllood petition together if the neighborhood now fclt differently than they did a few years ago. Residents of both the lnterlachen and Bellgrove neighborhoods also brought up concerns during the public input process about safety and security issues related to neighborhoods that potentially would abut new trails. It has been the experience of both City staff and the Cities consultant that trails tcnd to add to the safety and security of neighborhood areas by adding desired non-motorized traffic to the area (i.e., families, joggers, bicyclists, etc.) and by giving non-motorized traffic a defined place to travel outside of the vehicle drive lanes. . Project Schedule and Distribution of Brochures Once the Council adopts the plan, City staff will work together to get an initial lot (approximately 500) 01' the brochures printed for distribution. We will make the brochures avallable at various City locations, including City buildings, trail hubs, and any other location that requests the brochures. Notice of the availability of the brochures will also be . published in the Hopkins Highlights and the Sun Sailor newspaper. As mentioned in the master plan rermi, implementation of the entire plan is typically a long-term endeavor. The report identifies a realistic goal of 20 years to implement the plan. Priority projects to be constructed in the next five years are identified in the plan and will be scheduled and budgeted for in the 2003-2007 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). As with most Hopkins improvement projects, each individual trail project will have its own public input, design, approval. and construction phases. . . CITY OF HOPKINS HENNEPIN COUNTY, MINNESOTA RESOLUTION NO. 2002-31 RESOLUTION ADOPTING TRAIL AND SIDEWALK MASTER PLAN CITY PROJECT 01-11 WHEREAS, the City of Hopkins has determined that it would be in the best interest of the City to prepare a community comprehensive trail and sidewalk master plan; and WHEREAS, the City of Hopkins has determined that it would be in the best interest of the City to prepare a brochure and map summarizing the master plan and the park, trail, and sidewalk features of Hopkins; and WHEREAS, SRF Consulting Group, Inc. has prepared such a plan dated April 2002 that includes suggested City staff revisions recommended following an extensive public input process; and WHEREAS, the Park Board has reviewed the plan and has recommended that the City Council adopt the plan as revised by City staff. . 1. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Hopkins hereby adopts the aforesaid comprehensive trail and sidewalk master plan as the official city plan to be used for future planning and improvements of sidewalks, trails, and their amenities in the City of Hopkins. 2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Hopkins hereby authorizes the City Engineer and the Communications Coordinator to print and distribute the brochure and map, as they deem appropriate and may retain the professional printing services they deem necessary to print the brochure and map. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Hopkins this 16th day of April 2002. By Eugene J. Maxwell, Mayor ATTEST: Terry Obermaier, City Clerk . -- CITY OF HOPKINS HENNEPIN COUNTY, MINNESOTA . RESOLUTION NO. 2002-32 RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THREE RIVERS PARK DISTRICT IMPLEMENTATION OF TRAILS, GREENWAYS AND PARKS IN THE FIRST TIER COMMUNITIES WHEREAS, Three Rivers Park District, formerly Suburban Hennepin Regional Park District, has studied the potential for trails, greenways and parks in the first tier communities of Suburban Hennepin County; and WHEREAS, the Three Rivers Park District has authorized its consultant, SRF Consulting Group, Inc., (SRF) to draft a plan summarizing the First Tier study information; and WHEREAS, the Three Rivers Park District will work with First Tier Communities to review and comment on said plan; and WHEREAS, the Three Rivers Park District desires that Communities initiate and support the implementation of said plan; and WHEREAS, the Three Rivers Park District will require in a cooperative . agreement with each city where a trail, greenway or park would be implemented; and WHEREAS, the implementation of this First Tier Plan will be an ongoing process; and WHEREAS, the Hopkins master plan identifies many of the same trail segments through Hopkins that are identified in the Three Rivers Park District Master Plan; and WHEREAS, the Hopkins master plan is generally consistent with the Three Rivers Park District Master Plan; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Hopkins supports the efforts of the Three Rivers Park District to implement a first tier system of trails, greenways and parks and endorses the concept plan for said system. 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I ^., ~/ { SIGN IN SHEET · PUBLIC OPEN HOUSI<: HOPKINS SIDEWALK AND TRAIL PLAN April 4, 2002 & April 9,2002 Name: Address: , a..",'., !:" :/0, /, 42 / ,'" , 0 ~ I..' , ' " " , , " '-~ _1 . " " 11 r "r . --------.-.----"-',- -- '----..-..-- --_.~ / ' " , I ,i,/j /' ,;' , J ,", "',) ,; r i' ! ,'-, ,: ' 4 -. /"..,., l " /'! . f v -' v " ",J, / J) I /' " .1_/ 'i f...' ,^ :J'-tL<~:,i>, ...~!~__ /_' - .,." . ". ,'j/";',(_" 44,lll' /t /j, ,'-;'~/' _ ) -;/ --:; (t;1 /1/ If j ~ . ( i ( , ' 45, 1'1.'\ ~ y ~ ViAe (" (l1Y"''( / '.... ~r.. If ./~': (. / {-':"! ( >"'0/ 46, ~_~ ___ 47,_ _ _ 48. . 49,_ 50,~ .. _ . ,_, _ _ _ _,_ _ _ 51. _ __ _ ____ ___ _ __,_ _ _ 52. 53,_ _ ~_ _ _ 54. _ _ __ _ 55,_ _ '__ _ 56.~ ___ ___ _,_ 57._ ~_~ ___, _ _ '_ _ ~_~ 58._ _ _ 59,_ ___ ___ ~_._ ___ _ '''__ ___ 60,_ __ _ _,_ ~__ _ _, _ ___,_ _ ___ (il. . 62=--~ -=-- ---=-_~~~ _~-_--- --- - - - . AGENDA PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE HOPKINS TRAIL AND SIDEW ALK MASTER PLAN April 4, 2002 and April 9, 2002 7:00 - 8:00 PM Hopkins City Hall 1. Introduction II. Project Overview (Brochure, Report, Funding, Schedule), Steve Stadler, Hopkins PuhIic Works Director III. Description of Master Plan Mike McGarvey and Joni Giese, SRF Consulting Group IV. General Questions/Discussion . V. Open House Breakout Session - Individual Questions/Comments/Concerns . Please make sure you signed in at the Door. . Feel free to fill out a comment card and leave it at the door or take home and send back. . Thank you for COIning and make sure you receive your Hopkins Trails reflective ann/leg band. . ---- --- - City oj%pkins 1010 ~irst Street Soutn · J{opr(jns, %'J{ 55343-7573 · Pnone: 952-935-8474 . '.fa?(; 952-935-1834 We6 aadress; www.fwpl(jnsmn.com March 12, 2002 Dear Property Owner, The City of Hopkins is updating and enhancing the City's Sidewalk and Trail Master Plan. The original plan is almost 10 years old and is no longer applicable to the community's needs. The plan proposes future trail and sidewalk improvements in the direct vicinity of your property. The City of Hopkins is committed to implementing user- friendly community trails and sidewalks. A master plan will identify areas where sidewalks and trails are needed as wcIl as enhance funding and project opportunities. After several months of pkuUling and drafting. members from SRF Consulting Group (the City's consultant for this project). City staff. the Hopkins Park Board, and the Hopkins City Council are ready to present a draft to the community and to ask for input. Members of the Hopkins eummunity are invited to a Sidewalk and Trail Master Plan Open House. Please join us on April 4 or April 9, from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Hopkins City Hall to review the plan, ask questions and provide feedback. This is your chance to provide input before the plan is submitted to the Park Board and the City Council. The Park Board will review the plan on April 15 and the City Council will . review it on April 16,2002. The project consists of two parts: Part One: Design a brochure/map highlighting the park locations, park amenities, existing trails/sidcwalks/on-road bike routes, and possible future trails/sidcwalks/on-road bike routes. Part Two: Develop a trail and sidewalk master plan report. The report will document the City's vision for community pedestrian and bicycle facilities. It will guide existing trail system improvements as well as facilitate the construction of desired trail and sidewalks when development, redevelopment, roadway projects, or trail/sidewalk projects arc initiated. The report will also address signage, bike routes, and safe crossings as well as identify goals and fill in missing links and gaps in the City's trail system. Implementing a project of this magnitude is a long endeavor; overall implementation could reasonably take 20 years. Although funding of specific proposed projects is not yet available or identified, there ate various funding sources (Local, State, Federal, DNR, Assessments, Bonds, Grants) that are identified in the master plan to potentially fund future sidewalk and trail projects. Many of these funding sources require that a project be identified in the City's adopted master plan In order to qualify for the funding. . PartnerifW willi the Community to 'En fiance the Quafity of Life · Inspire. 'Educate. hlvo(.IIe . Communl<:ate . e The City intends to pruduce a useful plan that pruudly showcases the Hopkins trail and park systems as well as iclentit), areas where Hopkins can effectively l(xLls its resources in the future. If YOLl have any question or comments, please call me at (952) 939~ 1356 or email me at sbot(ld1OpkinsI1111.com. r louk forward to meeting YOLl at the public Open House on April 4 or April 9. Sincerely, xtJ---- ~)~ . ./ _4 ,'_-- ..-:.' L-" C.L /(?i Steven G. Bot Assistant City Engineer . . I ~nte~ c en gNd 9UitJli&rol. CWDrkj "tJ ~tfur Special Edition The City of H1kins has given our Neighborhood Association a notice to deliver to all residents 0 Interlachen Park concerning the updating and enhancing of the City's Sidewalk and Trail Master Plan. This notice contains proposed future projects in our neighborhood. Please read thro~h their attached letter, noting that some of the proposed projects are intending to Ii all parks and schools to the Hopkins trail and sidewalk system. . In a nutshell, their proposals affect our neighborhood in the following ways: - A bike trail is proposed for the south side of Excelsior Boulevard, connecting Blake Road with Meadowbrook Road. The existing path on the north side of Excelsior Boulevard may be upgraded and/or repaired. - A sidewalk is proposed for the east side of Blake Road. - A bike trail is proposed for the west side of Blake Road. - An on-road bike path along Homedale Road is recommended to link the proposed path on the south side of Excelsior Boulevard with the park in Interlachen Park, either through restricting parking on both sides of Homedale Road, or by widening Homedale Road to create room for both bike lanes and car parking. This would most likely include signs and roadway striping to identify the bike route. - A one block section of new sidewalk between Excelsior Boulevard and Preston Lane, on the west side of lnterlachen Road is proposed to link 51. John's School to the proposed bike path along the south side of Excelsior Boulevard. - Funding sources for the proposed future projects are not yet available or identified. Potential sources include local, state, federal, DNR, assessments, bonds, and/or grants. We are all invited to attend the Sidewalk and Trail Master Plan Open House on April 4 from 7:00-8:00 p.m. or on April 9 from 7:00R8:00 p.m. at Hopkins City Hall. These nights are your chance to ask questions and provide your input into the . city's proposed changes. Please read the city's letter and feel free to call Steve Bot, Assistant City Engineer, with questions. His number is 952-939-1356. City ofCJlopkins 1010 'First Street Soutfi · J-(opf;jttSJ 'Jvf3o.L 55343.7573 · pfione: 952-935-8474 . 'Far:' 952-935-1834 'We6 adaress: www.ftopf;jnsmn.com February 14,2002 Dear lnterlachen Neighborhood Resident. The City of Hopkins IS updating and enhancing the City"s Sidewalk and Trail Master Plan. The original plan is almost 10 years old and is no longer applicable to the community's needs. The City of Hopkins is committed to implementing user-friendly community trails and sidewalks. A master plan \vill identify areas where sidewalks and trails are needed as well as enhance funding and project oppOliunities. After several months of planning and drafting, members from SRF Consulting Group (the City's consultant for this project). City staff. the Hopkins Park Board, and the Hopkins City Council are ready to present a draft to the community and to ask for input. Members of the Hopkins community are invited to a Sidewalk and Trail Master Plan Open House. Please join your neighbors on April 4 or April 9, from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Hopkins City Hall to review the plan, ask questions and provide feedback. This is your chance to provide input before the plan is submitted to the Park Board and the City Council. The Park Board will review the plan on April 15 and the City Council \vill review it on April 16,2002. . The project consists of two parts: Part One: Design a brochure/map highlighting the park locations, park amenities, existing trails/sidewalks/on-road bike routes, and possible future trails/sidewalks/on-road I bike routes. Part Two: Develop a trail and sidewalk master plan report. The report will document the I City's vision for community pedestrian and bicycle facilities. It will guide existing trail system improvements as well as facilitate the construction of desired trail and sidev"alks when development, redevelopment, roadway projects. or trail/sidewalk projects arc initiated. The report will also address signage, bike routes, and safe crossings as well as identify goals and fill in missing links and gaps in the City's trail system. Implementing a project of this magnitude is a long endeavor; overall implementation could reasonably take 20 years. For members of the Interlachen neighborhood. the Sidewalk and Trail Master Plan achieves three goals identi fied in the plan: 1. Provide connections along major thorou~hfares. Future proposed projects include installing an off street trail along the south side of Excelsior Boulevard in addition to the existing trail on the north side, installing a sidewalk along the east side and a trail along the \Nest side of Blake Road. These potential projects are 011 the outer boundaries of the Interlachen . neighborhood and are identified in the existing master plan. Partneritl~q with the Community to 'Enhana tlie Quality of Life · In.spire + 'Edi!cate + hwol'le . Communicate + -- ..---- -- -- . 2. Provide links for underserved neighborhoods. The opportunities for bicyclists or pedestrians to get into or out of some neighborhoods without using an unmarked roadway are limited. The InterIachcn neighborhood was identified as an area with an opportunity to link trail and sidewalks to regional trails and community destinations. 3. Provide non-motorized links to schools, parks, community institutions, commercial nodes, and transit nodes. In order to provide access to and from lnterlachen Park off of the proposed trail along the south side of Excelsior Boulevard, a future on-road bike route along Homedale Road was proposed. If this route were established on the current roadway surface, parking along Homcdale Road would most I1ke1y need to be restricted on one or both sides. However. then.. is an alternative option. An alternative to restricting parking on Homedalc Road 'vvould be to widen Homedale Road to accommodate additional 'vvidth for both the bike lanes and the parking. Signing and roadway striping revisions would most likely be utilized to identify the route. In order to provide access to and from John Ireland School off of the proposed future trail, along the south side of Excelsior Boulevard. a future proposed one block section of sidewalk along Interlachen Road was identified. This section . would tie into the existing sidewalk located along the school. The plan further identifies that an on-road bicycle route should be examined as an alternate non- motorized route for this one block segment. Although funding of specific proposed projects is not yet availabk or identified, there are various funding sources (LocaL State, Federal. DNR, Assessments, Bonds. Grants) that are identified in the master plan to potentially fund future sidewalk and trail projects. Many of these funding sources require that a project be identified in the City's adopted master plan in order to qualify for the funding. The City intends to produce a Llseful plan that proudly showcases the Hopkins trail and park systems as well as identify areas where I lopkins can effectively focus its resources in the future. If you have any question or comments, please call me at (952) 939-1356 or email me at sbotr(}~hopkinsmn.eol11. I look forward to meeting you at the public Open House on April 4 or April 9. Sincerely, ~~r. J, 1/ ,- .y Steven G. Bot . Assistant City Engineer . . News Release City of Hopkins 1010 First Street South Hopkins, MN 55343 Contact: Steve Bot Assistant City Engineer 952-939-1356 For Immediate Release Trail and Sidewalk Improvements Public Open House Hopkins, MN -March 28, 2002- The City of Hopkins has updated and enhanced the City's Sidewalk and Trail Master PInn. A draft of the plan will be unveiled during an Open House on April 4, and April 9. . After months of planning and drafting, memhers from SRF Consulting Group (the City's consultant for this project), City staff, the Hopkins Park Board, and the Hopkins City Council are seeking input from members of the community. Members of the cOlllinunity are invited to a Sidewalk and Trail Master Plan Open House 011 April 4 or April 9, from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Hopkins City HalL This is your chance to provide input before the plan is submitted to the Park Board and to the City Council for approval. The original trail and sidewalk plan was almost 10 years old and was no longer applicable to the community's needs. The City drafted a design plan that proudly showcased the Hopkins trail and sidewalk systems as well as identified areas where Hopkins can effectively focus its resources in the future. The project consisted of two parts: Part One: Design a brochure/map highlighting the park locations, amenities, existing trails/sidewalks/on-road bike routes, and possible future trails!sidewalks!on~road bike routes. Part Two: Develop a trail and sidewalk master plan report. The report will document the City's vision for community pedestrian and bicycle facilities. It \~'ill guide existing trail system improvements as well as facilitate the construction of desired trail and sidewalks when development, redevelopment, roadway projects, or trail/sidewalk projects are initiated. The report will also address signage, bil:e routes, and safe crossings as well as identify goals and fill in missing links and gaps in the City's trail system. . ( more) -- -- -.- , . The plan proposes several goals: 1. Link local trails to regional trails 2. Provide non motorized links to schools, parks, community institutions, commercial nodes and transit nodes within the City 3. Provide links to major employment nodes, including commercial redevelopment sites 4. Provide links for underserved neighborhoods 5. Provide sidev.:aIk cOlUlections along major thoroughfares 6. Fill in voids and address inconsistencies within the existing system 7. Provide for connections to trails in neighboring cities 8. Provide safe crossing of high volume roadways and railways 9. Establish sign age and orientation prototypes and guidelines 10. Make recommendations for user amenities If you have any questions or comments. please contact Steve Bot at (952) 939-1356 or email him at sbot@hopkinsmn.com. . ### . - - -- PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE QUESTIONNAIRE HOPKINS SIDEWALK AND TRAIL PLAN . April 4, 2002 & April 9, 2002 1. GENERAL COMMENTS/QUESTIONS Please provide comments, questions or information you would like considered as part of these improvements. - --r--=--- I 1--- I I . .' , .-' . '.' I (J .', I , 1 ".' :. I J . . I I " ,I ~ .~' 1 !. r ! I, ! .~~-~ o -r I I . i_ ~_~---"-T~' .l ,I . t .' I \ . ,f'" ! j , ' .,L--. --------:-~~ ... r'-. J, ----L..L-,------------------:- f' . , . t> c tl " / I:, .___u._...J.,.,,--.. -i;-- r l..._...-----"'----- ~ . '.... '-- '.-,.' .. .' " '. . " [ }. ,. " \ \. .', . j..j I .-----:-~J__CL'_':~L ----;- \, r ,! ..' , ., . I, . . / ~. ~ / I? ." . L ,~\ , I :. J' 11. . 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PLEASE FOLD FORM IN HALF, SECURE AT OPEN END WITI I TAPE, AND MAIL I" II' 'H" '\I"" I" "1'\'11' 'I' '\"\1 It'I' I'" '1'1 . CC66-CvC9S Nil'll SNI>idOH S 1.5 .lS~ O~O~ SNI>idOH :10 AJ.I:> lN3INLtlVd30 9NltI33NI9N3 33SS3ClOOV A8 OlVd 38 111M 38VJ..SOd Nl^J SNI>ldOH v9E .ON J.ll/IJtE3d llVl^J SSVl:J-J.StJl.:l llVW A ld3~ SS3NISna S31VLS 031JNn 31-1.1.. NI 03lllflAJ ::11 II f.CllfSS3::l3N 381;f.LSOd ON . . -. PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE QUESTIONNAIRE HOPKINS SIDEW ALK AND TRAIL PLAN . April 4, 2002 & April 9, 2002 1. GENERAL COMMENTS/QUESTIONS Please provide comments, questions or information you would like considered as part of these impr?Ve1"!lcnts, ') . ,') " " ,', ~1" "l / /, p/" 4 I ;J 'l tL t { "'~- ~~f.6--1b..-----\ . L.fd,~JU:_... d ,- ,:',' .J-1L =<.--'. " )1./ --{I. ,( /) J (' I ,,-,1, ,i,. L i I I ,. 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CL-i'.J!>1;n ,Ju",:!d..f.J,/ 't.. r~J(. /)/~/" . ~ f ~ I Ii,! /; ,I' ! 1;' ',' . ,J '(1--:1' (' I, ~/ u~~~~&/iJ'-t!..~.0 'LL~ t.../1{;..AI zi,~ Ifi!#~ ;/I/l)_ {J; ~ I {)J ,/ J 4-------. ," I r -- -'" ! .~~_i1LY./-,--,)t~/ ~t)'..-jIJC.( :c-,: , --L;:~'C),-~I~''';:'(,~' l:tJJ- ~/r.~':--f;itg.L / -- / -+.!----- " J // . ~-~. '/ I ' "'--,. , / -.,' I _--Ll..0U_J!Y.-o':!._lLI~rP'/L~<J.)~I(( [{if ~t'?fl'{J--4:.: 0~~ ~ (?" , " ~ ,! 7) , 1 . I 'I _~____- . .......-j ,""' J _~,l!. I'-jf {~"1i, .,IJ.,/i_Jyl iL~Jj.~~ ~_i.u-~~,-).-.11L.4'!..--...J1L~~ /:- " I , ' ' I, ' ,r " I r dJ; ',' / i L," / I i j . ~ ~ ~ / tLd... ()~-- ,,' ~,- ",-~,.h)"- kf fu .....!:1....... rl'":/h/}..'-,....~/',;lt--L!.' "{/~P L--GI2-/7 LL-r~' :....~~; kv ~ ! i& it-' I . I iJ" i \' ~ ..::r;./;tJ c.' e ~4-( , - /lkl (j!~ 'JZ: j X JJI:LI ~i P-L!i" , )-1.,;, ~ f. , -!....A. ,. " ,,,' r ~-' ~.{ti:y[/) /~id__~i ~~:,-:/ltt~L,;:~----d~IY'-K/:J;:.0" ~Ld-ih~ ~.7'Vf:16#--ou:~-JJdJ.I.,,' (i')- j '-Ci~~LJLf-.J_--LLLLIi_--!J;fZ:<,j ".~:" .! ~.' J .". '. i" / ) j-.' , . i Ie '''';/ .':' ~ i'.j. Tlfe following information will remain confidential hut is needed in the event we have a question on your response, n ~?; Name: _~.L1-J~_!)If7 j Z~~ .-..------- I / J~; ~'~ '--'] {I II Address: I ," .- _~ /}:.... '( ~\ . (-. ,-' L-{. -'~.' t'_'ll \. , ",,!~ --- ---- ..___ ~ __c ('I 'J.') Phone No: <-)") - 1 '.;';' 7 --~,,,-,-,- ,~ . PLEASE FOLD fORM IN HALf, SECURE AT OPEN END WITI-I TAPE, AND MAIL \""" 11'"11'" 'I' '''''I'll'' 1"1" H' "1'\'" '1'\ . EE66-EVES5 NW SNI)ldOH S 1.5 lS~ O~O~ SNI){dOH :10 A..l1:l l.N31N1.H'a'd30 9NIM33NI9N3 33SS3ClOO\f A8 OIVd 38 lllM 38Vl.SOd NVII SNI>ldOH v9E .ON IllNCl3d llVlN SSVl8-l.Scll.::l llVW Ald3~ SS3NISna S31-\flS G31JNn 3f-LL NI 03ll\i1/\i c::ll Al:lliSS3J3N 381i-LSOd ON . . ~~~J! Steven Bot From: Robert J. Bonnett [bbonnett@usinternet.com] . Sent: Wednesday, March 20, 20024:14 PM To: sbot@hopkinsmn.com Subject: Park plans for Interlachen Park Dear St eve I Thank you for making the presentation recently to our neiqhborhood. Given the lucation of this meetinl), I hope YOll didn't: thillk yuu vlere getting nailed to the cross! Basically I view our neighborhnod as one giant park. . . .Meadowbrook golf (~oursef In 1- er I rtchen C'_'Ulltry Club, Interlachen Prtrk, and the PARK uf the City of Hopkins located within Interlachen Park. Although we may not all have rtccess tu this entire area, we do 'Jet to enloy much of this area as we drive to & from whereve.c, c.)r walk, or J O'J, or bicycle. We are definitely fortunate to live in this area. I uouut the consultants have an appreciation for the above and certCiinly never contacted any residents that I know of, to ascertain our wi.Ldest dreams and desires. As far as puttinQ any plan on any mc;lp for the future within Interlachen Park, please FORGET ITI We love our neighborhood, without curbs I without ::;idewdlks, and without bicycle paths. I respectfully suggest any city officials visit IP this coming summer during any work day, about noon, and you will note a number of persons st-roJling around IP, on the streetR, enluying our sunshine and pleasant \-loather. But, ask these same persons IF they live In Interlachen Park and tile answer vlill be n Nr~ u , we work across the street, on the North sidE:; of E>:c:elslor Boulevard. We are j\lRt uSlnq ()ur lunch hour to <]0 tor a walk. In essence our sl~reets are a sidewiJ.lk, with minimum traffic, 5hader! hy old trees, that- mrtny peolJle seem to enJoy enough to ::;trull through "our" nei'-lhborhood. I can't imrtgine d city providing a more rtppropriate setting tn attract employees to a jobsite. . FincH y pASS along the unaminous r:nnr.lu::;iullS and applause you received to oLher offi,:::ials (9 Hopkins when you indical"erl you heard our me::;::;dq",. ..... . .nothin'} is needed in Interlachen Park. Themk you again for yuur efforts. Sinc:p.Tely, Bou Bonnett 123 Interlachen Road HOPKINS . 1 21 HOMEDALE ROAD . HOPKINS, MN 55343 952.939.9924 March 25, 2002 Mr. Steve Bot City of Hopkins Hopkins, MN 55343 Dear Mr. Bot: I was unable to attend the March 18 meeting at St. John the Evangelist Church in the Interlachen Park neighborhood or Hopkins regarding a trail through thc neighborhood to lnterlachen Parle I understand YOll faced a difficult situation. As a resident of Homedale Road, and as a 1.000+ mile per }'car bike rider. I wish to provide my thoughts. I believe that therc are two important reasons WIlY I-Iomedale Road does not need a bike path. First, I have lived on Homedale Road for 13 years, 12 of those years as a university professor. This career has allowed me to spend much of my summer time at my home. My observation is that there is not enough trat11c bound for Interlachen Park (motor vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian combined) to warraJ1t a trail. Second, the Interlachen Park neighborhood and Homedale Road have relatively little motor vehide traffic, since . few streets lead anywhere except to residences on those streets. Even if there needs to be a trail designated (and even if it must be on Homedale Road) it seems that therc are few enough cars parked on tIle streets and little enough traffic in the Interlachcn Park neighborhood to warrant anything beyond simply designating a trail by signs. I understand that there were two options considered beyond simply designating the trail by si gns. One option was to place a line on the side of the street to designate the trail and then allow no parking on the street. The other option was to widen the street to make the trail and to allow for parking. Yet, I undersland that the first option requires a wider street than already exists on Homedale Road, so no matter the choice between these two options, Homedale Road residents lose: We lose parking for guests and/or yard space, as well as real estate value: and we lose these while having to !JUJ' assessments for a project we do not need or \vant. These plans have come about very quickly and with little notice to the residents that will be afTected. I sincerely hope that you will listen to the residents oftbe neighborhood and the strect(s) anected by these proposed changes. Having lived in the neighborhood as long as I have, and having biked the Twin Cities for 20 years, I simply do not see the need for the proposed changes, I would be happy to discuss my thoughts further if you would like to call or 1.:-l11ail. Sincerely, . Richard S. Sathe ---- - - -- --- --- -- --- . 17 March 2002 Dear Steve, As Hopkins residents, we recognize our city leadership has, is, and will continue to introduce initiatives that benefit the city we call home. We thank you for that effort. However, we do not consider the proposed access and design changes to Interlachen Park as positive. Since we cannot attend the session this Monday, we feel it is important to state our opposition to them. . We do not want to pay a special tax for these changes. We supported the school referendum - understanding the state's revenue shortfalls and specific benefits of the plan. We don't see the greater-good benefit of your design changes to balance any financial contribution. . As active members of John Ireland School, we cannot see the value of a sidewalk/bike path from Excelsior Blvd. JIS will be a K-3 school. Children that young don't ride bikes to class. If, however, there are teachers, etc. who ride their bikes, the school is easily accessible from the Excelsior Blvd bike path. . The bike path down Homedale would decrease property values of Interlachen Park -- property values which contribute SIGNIFICANTLY to Hopkins' revenues/budgets. There are three attractions to Interlachen Park: 0 A unique community spirit, which is built and invested in by our neighbors. Your plan is not impacting that spirit. In fact, you will see our unity on the opposition to your plan. . 0 The aesthetics of the homes and lots, which your plan will impact negatively. u The seclusion from Excelsior Boulevard and surrounding neighborhoods, which your plan will impact negatively. . Increasing the access to the Homedale Road Park, introduces safety concerns. We appreciate that this is a city-owned park, but the reality is that the strong majority of those who play there are our children. We can police our children in how and when to play there. We can't with others. If, however, people do want to come to the park, there would be easy access from Excelsior Blvd. Our streets are quiet and safe. We intend to attend the City Council meeting to support our neighbors and neighborhood. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions. Sincerely, John and Christine Miller 100 Maple Hill Road Hopkins, MN 55343 (952) 930-3084 . -- - '.~..... - . Z-6 E. St. AZ-bans Road Hopkins~ Minnesota 5S34 3 February 26~ lan ,"1r> . JOM Boland Metropolitan Council 300 Metro Squa1'e Bldq. St. PauZ.. MN 55Z0Z Dear Mr. Boland: Regarding the Public Hearing on ThW'sday~ Marc h J ~ 19P?, on the Regional Trail Policy Plan~ the BelZ-grove Association is submitting this letter jor official recc~ding at this hearing. The Bellgrove Association is a neighborhood of 89 home owners located in the "BelZgT'ove Area" of Hopkins. This letter states our opposition to the proposed Regional Trail P~ans for that section of Minnehaha Creek which flows through the properties owned by BelZ-grove homeowners. The Regional Trail Plan has idientified this section of Minnehaha Creek . as a tl"ai l corridor for crosS-eJountry skiing~ canOe 'Lng J biking and hiking. WHAT WE ARE OPPOSED TO: Development of both a bi~4cle path and hiking trail along that section of Minnehaha CY'eekwhich flows through properties owned by Bellgrove residents. WHAT WE ARE NOT OPPOSED TO " Since we realize th.at Minnehaha Creek offeY's the prwlic excellent recreational activities~ we are not opposed to canoeing i;, high war; '31' monthsJ and or'Gss-country skiing in the cree?<. b3d during iJinter mOnths. F:!OliJever ~ we would be oppos3d to signs placed J.Long the cI'eek in. the B8 Zz'grc-'ve area designating the canoeing and cross COWlt~y routes w~thin the creek. We think signs ,~n", not pZ2Ci.Sant to :ook at, and would nor. fit into the i"wtural envil'OiWle,L of Minnehaha Creek in Bellgrove. A~I'ERNATIVE RECOMMENDATION: liho. ~ we suggest as an aZt~r-~ative /"1:' pY'oposed hiking . and biking trails~ is tc identify r(1utes which would by-pass the BelZ-grove Y'esidential a:~'ea. That section -- ----- -- -- - - .~ ~ . of fiftnnehaha Creek which J&OWS thPOugh the Bellgrove area is a shopt distance in the overaZl Regional Truil Network. MoreoveT'~ a section of land East of the Bellgrove area through which Minnehal~ Creek meanders~ is law swampland which is not readily suitable to economio development of both biking and hiking trails. OPPOSITION REASONS: rLJ The establishment of the proposed hiking and biking trails wouZd deprive BeZZgrove residents of our riparian rights such that we could no Longer effectively control litterbugs, public nuisance offenderss and puhZia d.ama.ge to the environment aLong Minnehaah Creek in Be 1 Lgrove. (2) Hiking and biking trai Ls wi l l have a detrimental. effect on the investments we have in our homes and properties: presently we pay a property tax that is higher -than the "average base" within the Metropolitan area. (J) Hiking and biking trails will infringe on OUT' present privacy which we value highty. . (4) Hiking and biking trails will otrer BeZZgrove pesidents greater exposure to bUI'gwrs" vandalism a~~ othe nuisanoes. (5) Danger ro little children will b6 increased by the establishment of biking trails. (6) Development of hiking and biking trails along the creek will destroy natural habitat for ducks~ Y'QOCOonB" muskmt.'3J song birds" rare wild flol.Ue1"s and other forms of wildlife which presently inhabit the area. (?) Hiking and biking traiLs will increase public traffic through Bellgrove" distUY'bing ti1.e serenity and beauty of the heavily wooded propertied owned by Bellgrove residenrB. Finally" the BelZgrove residents will no~ 9rant any easements or sell C[rW l.and pcu'cels f01" the deve!opment of ,f;iking and biking Trails. ii"e hope the Met7'opo Z-i tan Co unci Z- .:rppreci1ltes our oppositior: to the p'f'oposed 7'dking and biking tY'd ls" and looks favoY'ably on selecting elf! :;Jter'naw -.{'oute ?;JhL,h would by-pass t:1e Bel.lgrove area. We also wish to extend an invitation to aU Metr~;politan Cauna'il Member'S to come and visit our BeZlgrove a~ea. We t.,ink that such a "viewing" ~ould be most beneJ~ciaZ for your RegiorLl Trail Program. . ResCH2dfuZZy Submi:f_ ~' ~. ~ "14 A /J!. /. IJ! J e-rrlC4L -f; Lj'l./i t --- Thomas F. c'c;;nfi2 Z d i " Board of T~"ustee$ / BeZZq~oue A3S0aiQ~ion --- -3- . ac: MI>. Wi lZiam C1'aig~ City Mgr.~Hopkins Mr. John Holrrquist, Minnehaha Creek Watershed Disty>1~ct Mr. ~aartes Kenow~ Environmental Quati~y Council Mr. Jerry Ben" Metropolita:n. Council . . - ____0___ ___0_- --- "- -- - --- --.- .-.---. .. . -~..- - .~........ ..... _u_ _ .u._ -_.. __ _..=-~>-.......:: --- -_.-.....~-~------~ , CITY OF HOPKINS . Hennepin County, Minnesota . RESOLUTION NO. 78-2716 A RESOLUTION EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR RESIDENTS OF THE BELGROVE AREA. WEE REAS I concern has been expressed about a proposed trail to be installed along Minnehaha Creek through the Bellgrove area. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the City of Hopkins: 1. That it is not appropriate at this time to construct a trail along Minnehaha Creek in the Bellgrove areai 2. That it supports the Bellgrove area residents in their efforts to limit Creek corridor use to canoeing and cross- . country skiing. Passed and adopted by the Council of the city of Hopkins, Minnesota, at a regular meeting held the 5th day of September 1978. H. E. RICHARDSON, JERRE A. MILLER, City Clerk Mayor JOSEPH C. VESELY, City Attorney . Page] of2 Steven Bot . - From: Steven Bot Sent: Friday, March 29, 2002 2:51 PM To: 'Andy Moore' Cc: Steve Stadler Subject RE: Trail plans Mr. Moore, Actually, the future trail along Minnetonka Blvd is planned in the Minnetonka Trail Plan to extend east to 169 into the St Louis Park system and west into the Minnetonka Loop trail system. Further, Hopkins is looking at a future trail up Oak Ridge Road which would connect with the Minnetonka Blvd trail. These connections also would ultimately connect up with various Regional trails. I know you have met with the Mayor and our Public Works Director, Steve Stadler, and we all are certainly sensitive to your concerns and will do our best to address them. I spoke with Steve Stadler yesterday regarding your tree concerns and he said he or the arborist would be contacting you shortly once he gets things scheduled. We did send a notice to all your neighbors that abut the future trail and I appreciate it if you passed on the information to them or have them contact me if the notice didn't reach them for some reason. Notices have also been published in the Sailor and Hopkins Highlights on a regular basis. Thanks for your interest and input, Steve . Steven G. Bot, P.E. Assistant City Engineer City of Hopkins (952) 939-1356 (office) (952) 935-1834 (fax) sbot@hopkinsmn.com -----Original Message----- From: Andy Moore [mailto:AMoore2@MN.RR.COM] Sent: Wednesday, March 27, 2002 7:52 AM To: Steven Bot Cc: Anderson, Edward Subject: Re: Trail plans Mr. Bot, I saw your drawing at a neighborhood meeting this week. It starts and ends at the Minnetonka borders? It doesn't connect anything? The consensus at the meeting was that it should not be made. With the plans of Widening the road, it . leaves no room to add a trail without considerable tree removal and property loss to residents. lawn 400' of wetlands that I don't want a bike path in. The existing bike trail on the shoulder is quite adequate. Do you have any idea when the arborist is coming to look at the impact of your plans to my trees and the 4/1112002 Page 2 of2 others along the Boulevard? . FYI- Several of my neighbors did not receive your letter about the trails meeting. Andrew Moore 11115 Minnetonka Blvd. ----- Original Message ----- from; Stev~n Bot To: 'A[1dy Moore' Cc: Steve Stadler Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 20026:32 PM Subject: RE: Trail plans Mr Moore, I could fax you a copy of our draft but unfortunately it IS in color and isn't very clear when transferred to a black and white fax. While the overall plan looks at the trail and sidewalk system for the entire City of Hopkins, I am sure you are most interested in how this may directly affect your property In the area of Minnetonka Blvd where you live the current draft plan shows the placement of a future trail along the south side of Minnetonka Boulevard. This future section is the same as is shown on the City's current Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan which is over 10 years old and is being updated This trail would likely be proposed to be installed along with the improvements to the intersection of Hopkins Crossroad and Minnetonka Blvd. An on-street bike route is also shown along County Road 73. I would be happy to discuss or go over the proposed plan with you if you would like since you are unable to attend the open houses. If you have any comments or questions regarding the plan. please feel free . to give me a call or e-mail me. Thanks for your Interest! Sincerely, Steven G. Bot Assistant City Engineer City of Hopkins (952) 939-1356 (office) (952) 935-1834 (fax) sbot@hopkinsmn.com -----Original Message-n-- From: Andy Moore [mailto:AMoore2@MN.RR.COM] Sent: Monday, March 25, 20023:13 PM To: sbot@hopkinsmn,com Subject: Trail plans Steve, I received your letter about the trails meeting on 4/4 or 4/9. I'm busy both nights. Is there something you could fax me about the proposed trails. Andrew Moore . fax 952-935-6396 4/11/2002 -.- . ~~- -- - ~.. -- ~-- lr:--J LPREFj:RRED SCHEM~____,~ ~~rej i I i ~ I . \," , BROOHL VN I I, PAfU< I /\ MAPLE GROVE' ! I - i . ~:, ,. ,I \; '-- " \ ,I .! 1 1<'~1~""---"":;';~~.-- E&glo'!lcltePoo.. ,II 1'1.', " " r.-1. f. , , I~ I L'-""'l'''''''' I.' I i \ ,~ " r ""I C --k. · . cO," "-~~"! I. r C.I . I , ~ 1':) . C M(NNETONf<A II , ,. ____.n__~'~:~~.,~:~;.,~_.__.Xn~m-----J,..--~-~--;--:-~i::~:j):!':::'i~' '\,1, , .'.':.' , , MINNEAPO~I~i ;'L' , i . . i ! ~~ r 'I L"\ I ~I:_': ,. I );;j' I' I,'..... I'. .:q i'll Wd 'If . "':'1"" ~'1\':: l'I'i': ,!ij. ..' '.: "~I:] '. EDEN ~ ",t', I AWO~ I I I ~ I~;~U _ '_. _ _"_ _ _"_ _ ~_ __._ _._~i'~_ [, . .'""-"I"r ~ I E~III.1-119HI!jIn~plllP.t:lIi:"T~oll El'l.tll1.!:lClt.,.Trc,1 _ = [-'"' ~= _ -':tl!m~dHl:''1l''1ep~[]rn~TtQll _011I_.",__ Plonn""d Cll",Tmfl ......"".____.., POlll61" Tl'cIlC\lnfo...r:AII"Ill"[f1RO\Jtofl DO\,/'ntGvm- Park !l~~;:(~"~ ~ ,.. . '., -- -...v . ~. --<~...' ..,~ '. ~ '.,,~ "J~b',? " " }.:,:,'~~r~:,-~~:~i~i .~ " '. , S, 'Z "', ~. i . Ou ". !.I .f IS P ---'. -.. t,!f:..~,~.2'L:. '/iRK '-"'-__. ", ~/I " ,'"-" ."';. ;~ .. :,' , " ,. J > '. .. , , .r . CITY OF HOPKINS TRAIL AND SIDEWALK MASTER PLAN Prepared For: The City of Hopkins 1 010 Fi rst Street South Hopkins, MN 55343 . Prepared By: SRF Consulting Group, Inc. One Carlson Parkway N, Suite 150 Minneapolis, MN 55447 APRIL 2002 SRF No. 0014304 . . INDEX Page INTRODUCTION... ................................................. ............................................... 1 Project Goals............................................................................................. 1 Study Process ........................................................................................... 3 EV ALUA TION OF EXISTING CONDITIONS ........................ ................................. 3 Preparation of Base Mapping ... ........................................................... ...... 3 Regional Trails......................................... ...... ................................... ......... 5 Local Trails and Sidewalks........................................................................ 6 Trails and Sidewalks - Adjacent Communities........................................... 7 TRAIL AND SIDEWALK MASTER PLAN .............................................................. 7 Proposed Facilities .............................. ...................................................... 7 Master Plan Concept..................................... ............................................ 14 IMPLEMENT A TI ON ............................................................................................. 23 Roles and Responsibilities............................................................... .......... 23 Project Prioritization............................................................................... .... 23 Implementation of On-road bicycle Routes ................................................ 25 Fund i ng ..................................................................................................... 27 OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE............................ ................ ..... ............. ..... 29 SAFETY AND SECU R ITY............. ........................... ............................................. 32 . LISTING OF TABLES Table 1: Hennepin County Bicycle Transportation Plan Proposed Trails ........... 6 Table 2: Proposed Sidewalks....................................................................... 15 Table 3: Proposed Trails.............................................................................. 15 Table 4: Proposed Trails and Sidewalks Located on Streets Included in City's Capital Improvement Plan (2002 - 2006).............................. 24 Table 5: On-road Bicycle Route Analysis................ ...................... h............... 26 LISTING OF FIGURES Figure 1 : Existing Conditions.............................................................................. 4 Figure 2: Sidewalk Typical Sections................... ....... .......................................... 9 Figure 3: Trail Typical Sections....................... .................................................... 10 Figure 4: Trail Typical Sections........................................................................... 11 Figure 5: Designated Bicycle Lanes............... ............. ........................................ 12 Figure 6: Wide Curb Lane or Shared Travel Lane Bikeway Alternatives ............. 13 Figure 7: Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan............................................................ 18 Figure 8: Proposed Facilities................... ............................................................ 19 Figure 9: Improved Roadway Crossings. .... ... ............. ........ .... ..... ......... ........ ...... 20 . Figure 10: Typical Midblock Crossing Alternatives................................................ 21 City of Hopkins April 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan . INTRODUCTION Over a century ago, Hopkins (then named West Minneapolis) was a small village located west of Minneapolis. Over time the metropolitan area has expanded west and encompassed Hopkins, but the City has retained much of its small town chaml and amenities that allows the community to be a bicycle and pedestrian-friendly community. Many of the community's amenities, such as a grid-street network with sidewalks and old railroad conidors that have been converted to multi- use trails, provide a strong foundation upon which to build a trail and sidewalk network that can facilitate non-motorized movement throughout the community. The development of a trail and sidewalk master plan will document the City's desired long-term vision for pedestrian and bicycle facilities within the City of Hopkins. The master plan will act as a guide to facilitate the construction of desired trails and sidewalks when new development or roadway projects are initiated. An approved master plan will also show the City's commitment to the implementation of a trail and sidewalk network that may enhance trail and sidewalk funding opportunities. Project Goals The trail and sidewalk master plan was developed to achieve the following goals: A. Link local trails to regional trails The City of Hopkins is fortunate to have the following regional trails pass through the . community: . Southwest LRT - North Corridor . Southwest LRT - South Corridor . Cedar Lake Trail (formerly known as the Hutchinson Spur Trail) These trails offer a pleasant, off-road corridor for both community residents and bicycling/walking enthusiasts from around the metropolitan area. Constructed by Three Rivers Park District (formerly Hennepin Parks) in association with the Hennepin County Railroad Authority, these trails provide the backbone of Hopkins' trail network. It is the intent of the City to connect as many neighborhoods to these regional trails as feasible, as they will provide connections to regional amenities as well as destinations within the City of Hopkins. B. Provide non-motorized links to destination schools, parks, community institutions, commercial nodes and transit nodes within the City One of the strengths of the community is that pedestrians and bicyclists could easily access many of the community destinations if provided adequate facilities. Many of the community destinations are used predominantly by children or the elderly who rely more heavily on non-motorized modes of transportation. It is the City's intent to provide trails and sidewalk access to these institutions to enhance the safety of people traveling to them. . City of Hopkins April 2002 Trail and SIdewalk Master Plan Page 1 ----- -- -- -- . C. Provide links to major employment nodes, including commercial redevelopment sites Hopkins h::ls several strong employment nodes throughout the community. The construction of trails or sidewalks to, and through, these nodes will provide employees the option of commuting to work using a non~motorized mode of transportation. D. Provide links for underserved neighborhoods There arc several neighborhoods within the community that lack trail or sidewalk connections to the regional trails and community destinations. It is the intent of the City to provide facilities for these underserved neighborhoods. E. Provide sidewalk connections along major thoroughfares Most major roadways within the community are thoroughfares that provide links to retai 1/ eomrnerci al/ernp 1 oymen t destinations and movement between the City's neighborhoods. It is important to provide transportation access for both motorists and non-motorists along these corridors. F. FiJI in voids and address inconsistencies within the existing system A review of existing trails and sidewalks was performed to see if links could be provided between existing facilities that will enhance the entire network. The construction of several smaller segments that Fill in voids in the existing system will enhance trail continuity, . allowing for greater mobility and the creation of trail or sidewalk loops for recreational use. Existing facility types were also reviewed. It may be pertinent for the City to change a sidewalk to a tTail or visa versa to enhance the continuity of the system. G. Provide for connections to trails in neighboring cities To better serve commuters and recreational users, it is important that proposed trails and sidewalks link with the network of adjacent communities to provide continuity and ease of use. H. Provide safe crossings of high volume roadways and railroads In order to encourage use of the trail and sidewalk system, people must feel confident that they can reach their desired destinations efficiently and safely. A number of major roadways and railroads traverse the City of Hopkins. These are locations where the possibility of accidents with motorized vehicles is heightened. Therefore, it is of great importance that the design of the trails and sidewalk network provide safe crossings at these locations. . City of Hopkins April 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 2 . 1. Estab]ish signage and orientation prototypes and guidelines Until the entire trail and sidewalk network is constructed, there will be gaps within the system that may make navigation confusing. 1n addition, users of the regional trails should be infonned of local trails that they could use to reach destinations within Hopkins and City residents should be informed of preferred routes to access the regional trails. A sign age system can enhance navigation of the local and regional system, as well as provide other trail user information such as distances and location of user amenities. J. Make recommendations for user amenities (type and location) The experience of using trails can be greatly enhanced with the addition of user amenities such as benches, drinking fountains, restrooms and bicycle racks. Placement of these amenities at strategic locations will aid in user comfort and increase the likelihood of repeat usage of the trail. Study Process Representatives from the City's public works and Park Department met with SRF Consulting Group, Inc. (SRF) over a course of several months to detennine the City's needs, clarify project goals and develop the Trail ,md Sidewalk Master Plan. A draft of the Master Plan was presented at a Park Board meeting and at a City Council work session. Modifications were then made to the plan based upon the comments recei ved at these presentations. . EVALUATION OF EXISTING CONDITIONS Preparation of Base Mapping The first stcp in evaluating the existing conditions entai1cd the development of a comprehensive base map that depicted regional and local pedestrianlbicyc1e facilities (both existing and proposed by other agencies). In order to evaluate the adequacy of the existing facilities, they must be examined in light of activity nodes that people are typically trying to access. Therefore, the following City destinations were added to the base map (see Figure 1): . Schools . Parks and Golf Courses . Downtown Hopkins and Retail Nodes . Employment Nodes . Civic Buildings (i.e., City Hall, Post Office and Library) A number of factors must be considered when trying to evaluate the feasibility of constructing either on~road bicycle lanes or off-road paths such as traffic volumes, right-of-way widths, land uses, existence of signalized intersections, presence of buses or trucks, topography and roadway grades. . City of Hopkins April 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 3 r- Q? ::J . ---..- -- - -.-- (J) +- ~ iL , . 2:_ ~ ~r.: ~ ~ ~ 3 ~"" g';,;.~~ ~J' ~ g~~~s~ ~.i(~~~8~~ - ~~~5.~~-g~ 3 ':';:=:\;:.1 U 0 ..J U lu I".:) D... !I) , "", " i \,r I _ jJ'11' . ! ~ ' I ~ -- "\, ~ ~ i " . , " 'f" I >. "\, ~~~ ~~ 11 i '. -l~=~-~-I-~' f -;:; ~ ' r _ l "'I~ r;- =--IJ'.....~~'..;. .!: '"= _ . ~ ~ \ - -,' ~--, E 11 ' I: ~I,.;;-r-;'I:J ~ E ~ I' ',: ~ --- ,.' 0 'fI . u .!!! _ i , _ ~ ~ 3 . 0 U a f i~~~~i~~ l:l Gl I- l:I;l '" "'0 ..c;: I;;" - ~ ~Ci~iE~U ~ .. ~~:2g3C"cr;-g~ ~ M ~~-f.~~.3~8~~ ~ ~E~~~~~~~; -g ~~~tE~ai'Ji&~.1i ~ D0KJllilill -.......~....... "- - -- '-- . , = , <^. h~ VNIO.;:i- . :.=. "3.'I~ ...o';~ ~~,~ .........i..LrlI. '(1 .\ ,;. ., "', z~ .:.t "'. . 1 ~ H -Il]h.I'_~ ",~...,;.::=;!~ . J.. ~. ~~,I I . , I. ~ I , , <( ~ ~.' ~ ~ , Z ~ M~ o ~ . _~ ~ I , llJ ., ''; -.. ~ / -:'. :.' 'I ~~\ ~"., \ t ~" / V>lNOl3NNIli'J \ ~, / \ ',,\ \ ~ : ;:1\ : .;"~'" "'.", '. :.' "'. \, '__0_ _..... ,_. . . Once a comprehensive base map was developed, potentia] trails and sidewalks were identified to meet the City's pedestrianlbicycle transportation objectives. Regional Trails The City of Hopkins has a strong foundation of regional trails, local trails and sidewalks from which to build upon. As stated earlier, three regional trails traverse the City. The Southwest LRT - South Corridor provides connections to the Midtown Greenway (in Minneapolis) to the east and Chaska to the west. Both the Southwest LRT - North Corridor and the Cedar Lake Trail terminate in Hopkins. The Southwest LRT ~ North Corridor provides a connection to Excelsior, while the Cedar Lake Trail provides a connection to downtown Minneapolis. The Southwest LRT trails are constructed from compacted limestone, while the Cedar Lake Trai] utilizes bituminous paving. Three trai]heads associated with these trails occur within the City of Hopkins: . The Depot Coffee House (located just east of the TH 169 overpass over Exce]sior Boulevard) . Southwest LRT - North Corridor Trai]head (located at the intersection of 1st Street and 8th Avenue) . Southwest LRT ~ South Corridor Trai]head (located just south of Excelsior Bou]evard at 8th Avenue. This is also the site of the transit park and ride ]ot.) . These trailheads typically provide trail information and parking facilities. The Depot also provides refreshments, restrooms and a picnic area. Hennepin County and Three Rivers Park District have developed long-range visions for mu]ti- use trails and greenways within the County. To ensure that the master plan developed by the City complies with the County's trail planning, the following materials were reviewed and pertinent trail plans reflected in the proposed master plan: . Hennepin County Bicycle Transportation Plan (January, 1997) . Hennepin County Bicycle Map (Apli!, 2001) . First Tier Trails, Greenways and Parks Master Plan - Suburban Hennepin County Regional Park District (2000) Table J lists the proposed trails within Hopkins indicated in the Hennepin County Bicycle Transportation Plan and the current implementation status of these trails. . City of Hopkins April 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 5 . Table 1 City of Hopkins Hennepin County Bicycle Transportation Plan Proposed Trails Road/Corridor Transportation Plan Status Hopkins Master Plan Proposed Facility Minnetonka Boulevard Bikeway No trail facilities Shown as future off-road (OnJOffRoadway) trail (south side of road) Shady Oak Road Bikeway Striped roadway Shown as a future on-road (On/Off Roadway) shoulders, not signed facility as a bike route Hopkins Crossroads Bikeway No trail facilities Shown as a future on-road ~ (On/Off Roadway) facility Excelsior Boulevard Bikeway Trail along south side Shown as existing trail (Shady Oak Road to (On/Off Roadway) of road 8th Avenue) Blake Road Bikeway Trail constructed Shown as existing trail (Southwest LRT to City (On/Off Roadway) from Southwest LRT north of Boyce Road and Limits) to Boyce Road. future off-road trail south of Gravel road shoulder Boyce (west side of road) from Boyce Road to City limits Hutchinson Spur Trail Independent Corridor Constructed Shown as existing trail . Trail - Southwest LRT Trails Independent Corridor Constructed Shown as existing trail Trail Connection between Bikeway Study performed Shown as future on-road Southwest LRTs (On/Off Roadway) (8th AVC'nuc) Source: Henllepin County, SRF Consulting Group, JnL'. Local Trails and Sidewalks Local trails are typically constructed using bituminous paving, but several trails do exist that are constructed from either gravel or woodchips. The City has numerous trails within City parks that should be linked to the adjacent neighborhoods. The City also has five major existing local trails located predominantly south of Exce1sior Boulevard. As with the Southwest LRT trails, these trails provide a strong foundation from which to build upon. . 11 th A venue (Excelsior Boulevard to Smetana Road) . 5th Strect/2nd A venue (11 th A venue to 3rd Street) . 3rd Street/2nd Street (5th A venue to Blake Road) . Excelsior Boulevard (Shady Oak Road to 11 th A venue) The trail along the west side of Blake Road should be improved bctween the Southwest LRT trail . and Excelsior Boulevard and then extended south to the city limits. Excelsior Boulevard should be extended east to enhance trail continuity. City of Hopkins April 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 6 . Sidewalks are typically constructed using concrete pavement. Sidewalks In residential neighborhoods typically are six feet wide and separated from the streets with a grass boulevard. Sidewalks in the downtown district typically run from back of curb to building facades. Sidewalks are predominantly built to accommodate pedestrians, even though bicyclists also often use them. In celtain areas with high concentrations of pedestrian movement (i.e., Downtown Hopkins) usage of the sidewalks is restricted to pedestrians only. Sidewalks are predominantly present in the historic core of the City. The later-developing residential areas and the industrial areas, for the most part, lack sidewalk facilities. i Trail and Sidewalks - Adjacent Communities I Trai I master plans and mapping were reviewed for the surrounding communities of Minnetonka, St. Louis Park and Edina. Existing and proposed trail corridors for these communities were mapped and compared to Hopkins' existing facilities (see Figure 1). The proposed master plan shows linkages necessary to provide continuity of facilities between the adjacent communities. TRAIL ANO SIOEW ALK MASTER PLAN Proposed Facilities The master plan depicts three different types of pedestrian/bicycle facilities: . Sidewalks . . Multi-use Trails . On-road Bicycle Routes The following section presents each of these facility types in more detail. Sidewalks It is the intent of the City to provide continuous sidewalks along one side of all the major thoroughfares within the City. In order to encourage pedestrians to walk to activity nodes and to make the walking experience as comfortable and safe as possible, construction of future sidewalks should: . Have a minimum width of six-feet in residential areas and six-feet to eight-feet wide in non-residential areas, provided that adequate space exists. . Be separated from the street by a five-foot wide (minimum) planted "boulevard" where space allows. When sidewalks must be placed at the back of the curb, the sidewalk width should be increased to eight feet. . Be full width at transit stops. Transit shelters or benches should be located either in the boulevard or behind the sidewalk. . Provide handicapped curb ramps at each comer and crosswalks across major roadways or at high pedestrian crossing locations. . . Be cross-pitched toward the street at two percent (2%) for drainage. City of Hopkins April 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 7 . Figure 2 graphically depicts some of these guidelines. In select locations, sidewalks may be placed at the back of curb such as in retail areas, along streets with narrow right-of-ways and along approaches to bridge crossings. Multi-use Trails Multi~use trails are off-road facilities located either in independent trail corridors (preferred) or parallel to roadways within the road right-of-way (see Figures 3 and 4). Multi-use trails are typically constructed with bituminous paving for ease of maintenance and comfort of users. All existing trails should be upgraded to bituminous paving unless specific conditions warrant bituminous as unfeasible. A number of factors must be taken into consideration when designing a multi-use trail, including: . Right-of-way width . Topography . Existing boulevard trees or other fOnTIS of vegetation . Curb cuts and driveway crossings . Overhead and subsurface utilities . Proximity to adjacent buildings, home, businesses and industrial facilities Multi-use trails typically have widths ranging from ten to 12 feet, allowing for a variety of uses, . such as walking, bicycling and in-line skating. Service vehicles arc able to drive on trails of this width without causing undue damage. Trail widths are based upon expected usage and available space. In select cases, an eight-foot trail width may be considered where reduced trail use is expected or where physical obstmctions exist. Where possible, trails should be separated from the roadway with an eight-foot wide boulevard or drainage swale. However, in limited circumstances, trails can parallel the roadway at back of curb, separated from the road by a paved two-foot-wide "shy zone. " This two~foot zone provides a buffer between the trail users and motorists and should be striped to delineate the edge of the trail. Curb ramps should be used at all roadways. Trails should have a maximum of five percent (5%) grade and a cross slope of two percent (2%) for drainage. On-road Bicycle Routes On-road bicycle routes are facilitles where bicyclists share the roadway with vehicles. Roads designated as bicycle routes are signed as such and need to meet design standards to ensure that adequate width exists to safely accommodate bicyclists. Typically there are three types of bicycle routes: designated bicycle lanes (see Figure 5), wide curb lanes and shared travel lanes (see Figure 6). The choice of bicycle route type is typically based upon the following factors: . Street width . Traffic volumes . Vehicle speeds . . On-street parking City of Hopkins April 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 8 r -- 0J (j) '- :J Q) . u: ",'~?i:~~tv .'al' ~':. ~~-~j ~ en ~:~~~~j C::: ~j :::> U .,eH u. ~~ 0 ~ 1 0 ~5~;:l'... -- '''',,", ;,../: <( ,;~ co ~ /"-. ~ ,.J"e .. 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Z Q::: 20 1< U :5 I ~z UJ f- 0 CO 3: Q::: ::) U UJ 0 5 .0 'S . 0 a (j) 0 .Q w .Q Z Q) 5 (] -1 W ~ C!:::. oJ, f- <D z 0 0'" '" z -(9 ~ "' z U>z 0 W ::::,c: w'iZ .\' Q::: >-~ i== <( C!:C: ::::J<e ~ 1< U 3: cf ~:;;: ~~ lJ.J :r: ~ f.f) w (/) ~z c.h 5 -1 - UJ f.f) =:2: Z C::: -1 @~ n 1< 0 :s 0 => Q:: L.L ';i:({ U 0... W I 20 '" Z ~~ ~ ~ en f- E 5 5: LU 0 :J E co "c 0:::. E ::) U f!J 0 w c:: 0 ~ 0 5: ~w ..c:: 02 '" ui::; '" /-> C ::i~ 0 "(;; . Q)Q:: C Q::>- (j) =>0 E Ow UJ Q:: D o<e ~ $'rn ~N CD +< 0 Z . Designated bicycle lanes entail the physical striping of a travel lane dedicated specifically for bicycle use. Wide curb lanes and shared travel lanes are only designated with signage. Wide curb lanes have travel lanes that are wide enough to comfortably accommodate both vehicles and bicyclists. Shared travel lanes should only be used on roadways with traffic volumes of 500 or less. It is expected that vehicles will cross over slightly into the on-coming travel lane when they encounter a bicyclist on streets utilizing shared travel lanes. Wide curb lanes and shared travel lanes can be supplemented with "Share the Road" signage that indicates appropriate behavior for both motorists and bicyclists. Design Guidelines Design guidelines for sidewalks, trails, on-road bicycle routes and roadway crossings should incorporate safety standards recognized by both State and Federal agencies in order to provide maximum user safety, convenience and efficiency. The following sources should be referred to when developing design guidelines and final designs: . Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities, prepared by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), 1999 . Selecting Roadway Design Treatments to Accommodate Bicycles, Federal Highway Admjnistration, January 1994 . Minnesota Bicycle Transportation Planning and Guidelines, Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT), June 1996 . . State Aid for Local Transportation Summary of Minimum Design Standards and Guidelines for Off-road Bikeways, Minnesota Depal1ment of Transportation (Mn/DOT), October 2000 . Minnesota Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MI'vlUTCD), Mn/DOT, 1991 Master Plan Concept The master plan was developed to meet the goals initially established. The approach suggests sidewalks along most the major roadways. At a minimum, all major roadways should have either a sidewalk or multi-use trail within the road right~of-way to facilitate non-motorized transportation. The approach for the historic core of the City predominantly utilizes sidewalks and on-road bicycle routes, while the newer section of town utilize multj-use trails either in independent corridors or parallel to roadways within the road right-of~way. Tables 2 and 3 provide brief descriptions of the proposed sidewalks and trails. A description of proposed on-road bicycle routes can be found in Table 5, later in the report. . City of Hopkins April 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 14 . Table 2 Proposed Sidewalks Street Name Bounding Streets Location TH 7 North Service Drive Hopkins Crossroads to Robinwood Lane North side of service drive Shady Oak Road Shady Oak Nature Center to Main Street East side of street 2nd Street N 12th Avenue to 11th A venue and North side of street 10th A venue to 9th A venue Minnctonka Mills Road 6th A venue N to 5th A venue N North side of street 11 th A venue S 5th Street S to N Landmark Trail and West side of street South Landsmark Trail to Smetana Road Excelsior Boulevard Hanison A venue S to Blake Road South side of street Blake Road TH 7 to Cambridge Street, Oxford Street East side of street to Excelsior Boulevard, Boyce Road to City limits Source: SRF Consulting Group, Inc. Table 3 Proposed Trails . Trail Trail Termini Description Shady Oak Nature Center Shady Oak Road (west) to North edge of pond, extending 20th Avenue N (east) east to 2nd Street N - Minnetonka Boulevard City limits (west) to City limits South side of road (east) Oakridge Road City limits (nOlth) to TII 7 West siue of road (south) Eisenhower School Elmo Park (west), Just south of country club Connection School property (east) propelty Elmo Service Road Eisenhower school connection East side of Elmo Service trail (north), TH 7 (south) Road, north side of Hwy Service Drive, west side of 12th Avenue Alice Smith School 12th Avenue N (west) to South side of TH 7 Connections 5th Avenue N (east) Minnetonka Mills Road Burnes Park (west) to South side of street Cedar Lake Trail (east) . City of Hopkins April 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 15 ~ . Trail Trail Termini Description Lake Street Connection Cedar Lake Trail (east) to Tyler Weaves through residential Avenue (east) area bctwecn Cedar Lake Trai I and Lake Avcnue N. North side of street between Lake Avenue N. and Tyler Avenue 2nd Street N.E. Existing Trail (Approx. 400 feet North side of street west of Blake Road) to Blake Road Excelsior Blvd! S1. Louis Cedar Lake Trail (west) to North side of Excelsior Street Jackson Street (east) Boulevard and S1. Louis Street Excelsior Boulevard Monroe A venue S (west) to South side of road Harrison A venue S (west) Excelsior Boulevard Blake Road (west) to City limits South side of road ~ (east) Blake Road Boyce Road (north) to Spruce West side of street Road (south), upgrade trail from southwest LRT (north) to - Excelsior Boulevard (south) 5th Street S. City limits (west) to 11th North side of street . Avenue S (east) Nine Mile Creek Southwest LRT (north) to East side of creek 5th Street S (north) Shady Oak Beach City limits (west), Woodhill Independent trail corridor Connection Court (south) and 7th Street S. between 7th Street S and (north) Woodhill Court with a spur to east towards Shady Oak Beach Wcstbrooke Way/Valley 11 th A venue S (west) through North side of street~ cross at Park Valley Park, to City limits (east) pedestrian bridge; adjacent to creek within park; crosses under TH 169 Smetana Road 400-foot segment west of North side of street Westbrooke Way 7th Street Connection Cul-de-sac at east end of 7th Trail segment to connect these Street to 2nd A venue S two streets. Willlike!y require a switchback to make up grade - change between the roads . City of Hopkins April 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 16 . Master Plan Map The master plan is presented in the fonn of a map that shows the following information (see Figure 7): . Existing and proposed facilities The map utilizes different line colors to differentiate between the different facility types and different line styles to differentiate between existing and proposed facilities. The adjacent communities' existing and proposed facilities are also depicted to show intercity connections. . Activity nodes Popular destinations, sllch as parks, schools, civic buildings, trailheads and the transit park and ride are highlighted on the map to help pedestrians and bicyclist determine an appropriate route to their desired destination. Figure 8 highlights the City's proposed new facilities and indicates the type of facility being proposed. Safe Roadway Crossing Sidewalk and trail continuity becomes an issue whenever these facilities must cross a major roadway, whether at signalized intersections or at mid block. Advance warning signs should be provided for vehicles, as well as trail and sidewalk users. Adequate lighting should also exist at . all roadway and railroad crossings. When major roadways with center medians are encountered, the median islands should be designed to provide a safe and comfortable space to wait for traffic signals to change. Median islands should be equipped with walk signal push buttons and could also include ornamental paving that visually reinforces that the area is intended for pedestrian or bicycle use. Figure 9 indicates road crossings within the City of Hopkins that are important to maintain continuity of sidewalks, trails and bicycle routes. Many of these crossings can be improved through safety signing, striping, lighting, paving, and in select locations, modifications to traffic signals. The roadway crossings are broken into two categories based upon traffic volumes, with the higher volume roads receiving more treatment. Figure 10 identifies three approaches to providing safe mid-block crossings, utilizing signing and surface striping based upon roadway widths andJor traffic volumes. Crossings of roadways under agency jurisdiction other than the City of Hopkins will require coordination with Hennepin County or the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Coordination discussions should involve provisions for signalized pedestrian crossings and adequate signal timing to accommodate crossing of the roadway. Traffic engineering principals must be taken into consideration to balance the needs of both motorized and non-motorized users. Pennits from the agencies will likely be required to any improvements within the right-of-way. Several existing and proposed trail and/or bicycle routes cross over active railroad tracks. These crossings should be signed and striped in accordance with the Minnesota Manual on Unifonn Traffic Control Devices (MMUTCD). Advance signage should be provided for the trail users. . 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(!) 1<OI1~;.iUN>> 1~ "'1.:..::1 ~ ------ i;5 0 f5 /-. f1j C) --- EE ---- CI) Q) =.-: :5 .,. D<If>- &>~ ~ I I 1-- I --- ft --- g{j 9 .< , kJl~~JN ~~lr~ L!:!3"'.,J f.~T'1TlCo.tlOt( . /-. tfj I E5 ------.:-- (/) I f -...~--=- ~ ~ =:-- . ~~ ~ --- - --.J - 2 :::r: 06 Sl2 :r: I { 'j.-- ---- :::J ~~ 00 f,IoIJ'\t:)JoIJI\l (/)0 r= =:-J~~ 0 t2::EiJ OJ---:: I ~:3 f:fj~ I ~ EEO CI)<( ~ LlJ< ::2S!; 3~ offl .sa :r:H: (!) 5:~ ~ '--- }-- -- f::::J rR,l,FL /f1~""T~I,",rfGft User Amenities . As stated earlier, trail amenities can greatly enhance the non-motorized travel experience and promote repeated use. The following section briefly covers several amenities that the City should consider implementing. Bike Racks and Lockers In order to encourage bicycle use, it is important to provide bicycle racks and storage lockers to safely store bikes while they are not in use. Bike racks should be provided at all schools, parks and trailheads. The library and activity center should also have bike racks. To encourage regional trail users to visit downtown Hopkins, bicycle racks should be located intermittently along Main Street either on sidewalk, in designated bicycle parklng areas on the street or in the parking lots behind the stores. If parking is located behind the stores, appropriate signage should be provided to inform bicyclists of their existence. Bicycle lockers should be provided at the park and ride lot to help facilitate bicycling as a viable commuting option. Water Fountains Drinking fountains provide an important health amenity for trail users, especially during the summer. Drinking fountains currently exist at nine city parks. The City should consider installing dlinking fountains at the Depot Coffee House and Central Park because both of these locations accommodate active recreational users. The City should work with Three Rivers Park District to have drinking fountains installed at the other two trail heads within Hopkins or at a . minimum provide signage that directs trails users to the closest source of drinking water. Benches Pedestrians of all ages and abilities heavily use the multi-use trails. Benches provide opportunities to rest and enjoy the trail environment The City should work with Three Rivers Park District to install benches along the regional trails and should also install benches along the local multi-use trails. Benches should be installed every In-mile, as right of way and budget allow. The placement of the benches along transit routes could possibly double as transit stops. Signaqe and Trail Maps Properly designed and located signage can significantly enhance the trail experience for users who are unfamiliar with the area. Signs should be used to provide: . Direction to the next trail segment when gaps exist within the network: . Information and direction to other user amenities slIch as drinking fountains and bicycle racks; . Visual identification of the trail system; and, . Distances to regional trails or other destinations within the City. All of the trailheads should have maps incorporated into larger signage. Trailheads ~md other significant activity nodes should also have sidewalk and trail map brochures that users can take . with them. City of Hopkins April 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 22 . IMPLEMENT A TION Roles and Responsibilities The master plan elements are divided into five groupings or categories: sidewalks, multi-use trails, on-road bicycle routes, safe crossings and user amenities. The Hopkins Public Works Department and Park Department will be largely responsible for the implementation of these measures. The Public Works Department will take lead responsibility for implementing sidewalks, on-road bicycle routes and intersection/railroad crossings. The Park Department will take lead responsibility for implementing user amenities. Multi-use trails could either be located in an independent trail corridor or within a road right-of-way. Trails that will lie in independent corridors will be the responsibility of the Park Department. Trails that lie within a road right-of- way will likely be built as part of a road improvement project and therefore be the responsibility of Public Works. Safety improvements to intersections will likely by initiated by Public Works regardless if the roadway being crossed is under the City's jurisdiction. Crossings of roadways under Hennepin County or Mn/DOT jurisdiction will require these agencies' permitting approval. Coordination will also be necessary when the City desires to place on-road bicycle routes onto or multi-use tfilils next to County or State roadways. Crossings of railro<lds will require coordination with the . companies that own them. Coordination with these agencies and corporations is important to achieve a successful project outcome. Three Rivers Park District has jurisdiction over the regional trails. Any construction of new regional trails would be initiated by Three Rivers Park District. Hennepin County has developed a plan for the implementation of a bicycle transportation network. Bicycle facilities proposed for the City of Hopkins arc shown in Table 1. Either the City or the County could initiate implementation of these facilities. Project Prioritization A 20-year implementation period is estimated for the Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan. Most of the projects will likely be constnlcted along with adjacent roadway work. The City of Hopkins has developed a capital improvement plan for the years 2002 - 2006. A number of the CIP projects affect streets that the master plan indicates new sidewalks or trails should he placed on or next to. Some of the projects indicate the future trail or sidewalk component, but many do not. Street improvements such as these afford a great opp0l1unity to implement p0l1ions of the trail and sidewalk master plan. Project limits and funding opportunities should he reviewed in the near future to determine if sidewalk/trail implementation could be integrated into these projects. Table 4 highlights the eIP projects, along with the proposed non-motorized facility highlighted in the master plan. . City of Hopkins April 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 23 Table 4 . Proposed Trails and Sidewalks Located on Streets Included in City's Capital Improvement Plan (2002 - 2006) Year of Future Facility Street Construction (Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan) 11 th A venue South 2002 Sidewalk along west side of road (Soo Line Bridge - Westbrooke Way) Excelsior Boulevard 2002 . Trails north and south of Excelsior (TH 169 - Ashley Road) (TH 169 - Harrison Avenue) . Sidewalk south of Excelsior (Harrison Avenue - Blake Road). . Trail south of Excelsior (Blake Road to Ashley Road) 13th A venue South 2002 On~road Bicycle Route (Ist Street South - Mainstreet) 2nd Street North 2002 On-road Bicycle Route and sidewalk (9th Avenue North - 12th Avenue along the north side of the street. North) 2nd Street North 2003 Multi-use Trail south side of road (21st Avenue N01th ~ ShOO)' CXlk Rood) . 2nd Street North 2003 On-road Bicycle Route (5th A venue Nrnth -6th Avenue Nrnth) 5th A venue North 2003 Sidewalk along east side of road (Minnetonka Mills Road - TH 7) Shady Oak Road 2003 Multi-use Trail west side of road (Excelsior Boulevard - TH 7) (Proposed by City of Minnetonka) On or Off-road Bikeway (Proposed by Hennepin County) 2nd Street Northeast 2004 Multi-use Trail north side of road (Parkside Boulevard ~ Blake Road) 5th Street South 2005 Multi -use Trail north side of road (II th A venue South - City boundary) 2nd Street North 2005 On-road Bicycle Route (Park Lane - 5th A venue North) - 7th Street South 2006 On-road Bicycle Route (Clll-de~sac - 11 th Avenue South) Minnetonka Mills Road 2006 On-road Bicycle Route (5th A venue to (Tll 169 - 5th A venuc South) Campbell Drive) Multi-use Trai I-south side of road - (Campbell DJive to TH 169) . Source: SRF COllsulting Group, 111e. and eil\' of Hop kills 2001-20U6 Copiwl l/IIprol'ClIJf'lIr Plall City of Hopkins April 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 24 . For roadway segments that have on-road bicycle routes associated with them, it may not be prudent to implement the on-road segment until the entire street length is ready for designation. But the roadway segment design should be done to facilitate future designation (e.g., design of storm grates). Tn addition to the above-mentioned projects, the City has $10,000 budgeted for the purchase and installation of bicycle racks for 2003. Additional analysis is required to detennine the best use of these racks. Several strong alternatives exist: A. Downtown to promote use of this area by users of the regional trail B. Schools or parks to encourage bicycling to these activity nodes C. Transit park and ride to encourage non-motorized commuting The CIP plan also provides $20,000 of funding in 2003 for regional trail connections. This funding could be used to help fund the integration of the master plan into the above CIP projects. Several projects will be initiated and funded separately as opportunities arise. The City has designated the following five projec.;ts to be implemented over the next five years: . Trail along the west side of Oakridge Road between TH 7 and the northern City limits . Trail segment between the Cedar Lake Trail and the Tyler A venue/Lake Street intersection . Trail along the south side of Minnetonka Boulevard between the cast and west City limits . . Trail along the south side of Excelsior Boulevard between Blake Road and Meadowbrook Road . Upgrade the existing trail along the \Vest side of Blake Road between Excelsior Boulevard and the Southwest LRT trail. These trail segments will provide important links to the existing regional trail system. Implementation of On-road Bicycle Routes The implementation of on-road bicycle routes entails that certain design standards are complied with to ensure adequate space on the roadway for the bicyclists. In order to obtain necessary travcllane or bicycle lanes widths, it may be necessary to remove on- street parking from one or both sides of a street. Table 5 lists the roadways that are highlighted on the Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan as on-road bicycle routes. Existing street conditions are provided, along with the route type that roadway could support. It then shows potential street configurations that would accommodate the bicycle route. Assumptions were made regarding traffic speeds and curb gutter widths that could have significant impacts on the ultimate roadway configurations. It is best to maintain one bicycle route type for the length of a street to muintain ease of use. . City of Hopkins April 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 25 . 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Funding Numerous funding sources will likely be employed to construct the trail and sidewalk facilities proposed in the master plan. This section describes potential funding sources that may be applied or mixed together when implementing individual projects. Municipal A. General Obligation Bonds could be issued by the City of Hopkins. Use of the bonds can be exercised by the City Council or by voter referendum. B. Property Owner Assessments could be applied to augment other funding sources or to serve as the primary funding agent. Similar to other assessments, annual installments would be used to cover the capital improvement costs. The basis of assessment could occur by various methods including: a. Property front or side footage b. An estimate of property benefit c. Geographic proximity to the project, or d. Parcel size in square footage C. Maintenance accounts for departments such as Public Works or Park Department could be employed for small projects . D. Capital improvement funds could be used for projects that are planned in advance and included in the City's capital improvement plan. E. A trail dedication ordinance could be established to provide land or funds for trail projects as new development or redevelopment occurs. Hennepin County Department of Transportation Hennepin County has obligated $200,000 annually as patt of a capital improvements program (CIP). Money must be matched by the local agency on a SO/50 basis and is available on a first~come/first served basis. Funds are allocated for construction costs only, and must be designed in accordance with Hennepin DOT Design Standards and Guidelines. Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) Municipal State Aid Funds can be employed for sidewalk and bicycle trail projects when these facilities are constructed as part of a roadway corridor carrying the Municipal State Aid (MSA) or County State Aid (CSAH) designation. Numerous streets and roadways within Hopkins carry these designations. Sidewalk and trail construction could be coordinated with the abutting street's reconstruction when requested by the City. . City of Hopkins January 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 27 . Minnesota Department of Natural Resources The Minnesota DNR has a number of grant programs for trail and related amenities. The main DNR trail programs applicable to the City of Hopkins are: A. Outdoor Recreation Grant Program: The purpose of this program is to increase and enhance outdoor recreation facilities. Eligible projects include trails and other facilities. Priorities include the acquisition, development and redevelopment of outdoor recreation facihties. B. Local Trail Connections Program: The purpose of this program is to promote access between people and desirable destinations, not to develop significant new recreation facilities. The primary purpose of this program is to complete trail connections between where people live and significant public recreation facilities (parks and trails). Priority will be given to residential connections to state and regional facihties. A secondary purpose is to link existing trail segments. C. Regional Trail Grant Program: The purpose of this program is to promote development of regionally significant trails, with the primary determinants of significance including trail length, expected use and resource qual1ty/attractiveness. Eligible projects include land acquisition and trail development. . State Appropriations A. Legislative Commission for Minnesota Resources (LCMR) The LCMR makes funding recommendations to the legislature for various environmental and natural resource based projects. Based upon the commission's strategic priorities, funding may be considered to assist communities with trail construction. B. Direct Legislative Appropriations The State Legislature has allocated funding for the acquisition and development of some trails. U.S. Dept. of Transportation: Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA 21) TEA-21 is the federal transpor1ation bill authorizing highway, highway safety, transit and other surface tr~msportation programs between 1998 and 2006. In addition to highway and transit, the bill provides for funding of bicycle and trail-related projects. The main sources are: A. Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvements (CMAQ): The program provides funding in areas that arc designated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as "non-attainment" or "maintenance" areas for ozone or carbon monoxide, to common urban air pollutants. Funds must be spent on projects that help e reduce these pollutants, including bicycle transportation and pedestrian walkways projects. City of Hopkins January 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 28 . B. Transportation Enhancements (TE): The purpose of this program is to encourage diverse modes of travel, foster local economic development and bring direct benefits to communities from transportation spending. Eligible projects include improvements to bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure and scenic and historic preservation. C. Recreationa] Trails Program: The purpose of this program is to provide for and maintain hoth non~motorized and motOlized recreational trails. Federal funds are distributed to states through a state recreational trails advisory committee. Metropolitan Greenways Program This program identifies and plans for natural areas requiring protection, restoration or buffering from future development. Trails may be accommodated in these areas if appropriate. Foundations and Non-Profit Groups Some of the major private organizations that support trail projects include the Nature Conservancy, the Tmst for Public Land and the Rails to Trai]s Conservancy. . OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE Facilities for pedestrians in-hne skating and bicycles, are subject to debris accumulation and surface deterioration, as well as season a] limitations, such as snow removal that require maintenance in order to function as they were intended and designed. Maintenance protects the investment of Hopkins so the trails and sidewalks can continue to be used safely. Poorly maintained facilities become unusable and a potential legal liability as bicyclists and pedestrians who continue to use them may risk equipment damage and injury. Others may choose not to use poorly maintained facilities, thus compromising the facilities' intent. To maintain the facilities' integrity, a series of maintenance practices are recommended to ensure user protection and efficiency: 1. Bicycle facilities including multi-use trails and dedicated bicycle lanes must be seasonally swept to remove sanding materials, gravel, broken glass and other debris. Similarly, sidewalks (especially those abutting the roadway area) also require a clean surface. It is desirable that sweeping occur in the spring after winter sanding and plowing activities have concluded. In addition, regular inspection should occur for Jitter removal or other interim conditions. Specific recommendations include: . Establish a seasonal sweeping schedule of all facilities, concentrating in the spring season. . Regularly inspect all sidewalks and trails and remove the accumulation of debtis as . needed. City of Hopkins January 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 29 . . Pay special attention to facilities that abut gravel on driveways or roadways that may be canied on sidewalks and trails. 2. Surface repairs should provide a smooth useable area free of cracks, potholes, bumps and other physical problems. Whether the trail/sidewalk surface is bituminous or concrete, regular maintenance must take place to make certain that the surface is unifonn and free of irregulmities. Specific recommendations include: . Conduct a regular inspection program to determine and correct irregularities. . Establish a citizen hotIine to respond to citizen complaints in a timely manner. . Pay special attention to bicycle facilities with the roadway area as a part of broader roadway maintenance. . Perform preventative maintenance arising from corrective problems such as drainage, invasive tree roots or settling due to differing surlace types. 3. Pavement overlays or reconstruction is needed as a surlace deteriorates and ages. Overlays or surface replacements are also a good opportunity to correct design inconsistencies or make changes to improve safety. Specific recommendations include: . Extend street overlays over the entire roadway surface for facilities including on-road bicycle routes. . Repair tree root encroachment or drainage issues when re-paving independent trail . systems. . Replace any sidewalk systems where differential settlement within the sidewalk or to adjacent surfaces creates the potential for tripping. 4. Selective vegetation, trimming or removal of encroachment material is always a concern with trails and sidewalks. Specific problems often confronted include root encroachment, tree or shrub overhangs, grass and weed populations and noxious weeds. Specific recommendations include: . Cut back any vegetation arching over sidewalks or trails to a dimension consistent with bicycle use. . Cut back or remove invasive tree roots and consider installation of root guards or other measures. . Selectively eradicate noxious weeds or weeds and grasses encroaching through surface cracks. 5. Maintenance of signs, strips and other user legends are important to maintain a safe facility and minimize liability issues. Specific recommendations include: . Regularly inspect signs and surface painting for condition. Seasonal comprehensi ve inspection should occur. Damage due to accidents, lack of maintenance, vandalism or storms should be spot-checked. . . Respond to complaints from residents as soon as possible. City of Hopkins January 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 30 . Make certain that all signing and surface painting is provided as a component of any . repaving or reconstruction projects. 6. SUlfacc deterioration from drainage problems causes settlement, interim ponding and the settling of foreign debris. These concerns pose safety issues that should be corrected on an as-needed basis. Specific recommendations include: . Raise the catch basins to be flush with the pavement during any pavement resurfacing. . Modify or replace deficient drainage structures consistent with bicycle-safe grates. . Inspect and replace faulty drains at intersections that may cause water to back up over the curb or onto crosswalk areas. . Inspect facilities after heavy rainstonns for ponding problems, placement of foreign debris or other safety-related issues. 7. Multi-use trails should be regularly sealcoated to prolong their life. Sea\coat material should be selected that allows for the trail mode provided for, including in-line skating. Recommendations include: . Establish a sealcoating schedule that allows for phased sealcoating of all bituminous sutfaces. . Make certain that cautionary signs warn users of loose sealcoat material prior to the removal of excess chip material. . 8. Utility cuts by both public and private providers can lead to a rough surface or an inconsistent surface jfnot properly back-filled and finished. Recommendations include: . Permitting for utilities should include provisions for adequate replacement of either bituminous or concrete surfaces. . Public works should petfonn a review to ensure that consistent surfaces are restored. 9. Minnesota's heavy snowfall accumulation poses issues from multi-season use of pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Issues of slippery conditions, snow storage and re-freeze are prevalent even when regular snow plowing occurs. Recommendations include: . On streets with on-road bicycle routes, snow should be plowed curb-to-curb. . Sidewalks should not be used for snow storage, and coordination must exist between street plowing and sidewalk plowing to prevent conflicts or inconsistencies. . Within commercial areas, encourage service districts, with private vendors paid for through property assessments, to complete comprehensive snow removal operations. . Perform regular inspections and spot checks. . Apply sand to those areas of sidewalk or trail where surrounding conditions (grades, drainage, aspect, etc.) allow chronic or unusually high ice accumulation. . Clear intersection and cross street areas of snow windrows resulting from street . plowing. . Respond to citizen complaints in a timely manner. City of HopkIns January 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 31 I . Sidewalks and trails within Hopkins will require ongoing maintenance to sustain their use and contribution to the community. Coordination is vital with other agencies and the private sector, especially during snow plowing operations. Planned, scheduled and regular maintenance is also crucial to the success and operation of the non-motorized facilities. SAFETY AND SECURITY Designing, operating and maintaining safe, non-motorized facilities is an essential ingredient to the success of the Hopkins system. A substantial focus of this objective must be during the planning and design phases of the project. However, user safety also involves ongoing security operations, as well as ongoing education of users. User security of the facilities will largely be foclIsed on independent trails. This should involve regular patrolling of the facility and spot checks of regular problem areas. Security provisions for the regional facilities (Cedar Lake Trail and Southwest LRT Trails) wlll be the primary responsibility of Three Rivers Park District and their park rangers. Clear responsibilities should be delineated between the Hopkjns Police Department and Three Rivers Park District Rangers to detennine response to specific requests, as well as the patrolling of these regional facilities. Hopkins Police will be responsible for community level off-road trails. Signing should occur with all trail corridors identifying the responsible policing agency and telephone numbers in case of emergency or security questions. . User education should be seen as an intricate component of a successful non-motorized system in Hopkins. Parallel to the development and implementation of sidewalks and trails should be a community education program focusing upon safely and trail etiquette. The program should include: . Safe use of multi-use trails, including: rules of the trail, passing, mixing with other trail modes and safe crossing of streets. . Bicycle use of on-street systems, including designated bike lanes and share the road facilities, with a focus on rules of the road. . Information pertaining to safe-street crossing at intersections. . Signalized and unsignalized crossings. Education programs should be provided by a number of entities. The Hopkins School District could integrate into their regular curriculum bicycle safety programs, including in-line skating safety. In addition, City Park and Recreation programming can host bicycle and in-line skating "rodeos" where bicycles are checked for safety, children are taught rules of the road and trails and bicycle helmets can be provided at a reasonable, if not subsidized, rate. Senior citizen programs should also be considered to reaffirm user precautions and safety considerations. . City of Hopkins January 2002 Trail and Sidewalk Master Plan Page 32 --